How to Downplay Broad Shoulders

By eHow Fashion, Style & Personal Care Editor

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A little fashion know-how can help you minimize those broad shoulders and play up your finer points.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Scarves
Women's Casual Tops
Women's Dress Coats
Women's Dress Shirts
Women's Dress Sweater

Step1

Remove any and all shoulder pads, and avoid structured suit jackets and coats.

Step2

Choose soft shoulders or raglan sleeves, and avoid clothing that draws the eye to the shoulder area, such as off-the-shoulder looks and cap or puffed sleeves.

Step3

Become aware of the triangle created by your shoulders and waist, and dress accordingly. Nipped-in and cinched waists will make your shoulders look bigger in comparison.

Step4

Wear vertical stripes, which downplay the appearance of full shoulders.

Step5

Soften the shoulders and make the body appear longer and leaner overall by wearing an entire outfit that's all the same color. Darker clothing on top will also help achieve this look.

Step6

Find jackets that fall to the hip instead of the waist.

Step7

Choose accessories such as chain belts, interesting buttons and bangles that attract the eye.

Step8

Wear a hairdo that lifts your center of visual interest. Short hair that doesn't hit the shoulders is a good choice.

Tips & Warnings

Find a great tailor.
Don't slouch. Standing up straight makes your entire body look better, no matter what your proportions.

Comments

Anonymous said

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on 8/8/2006 If you like shawls or scarves, try putting them asymmetrically over your shoulders, that keeps them covered but without making broad shoulders look broad. Wear blouses, T-shirts, tops that do not "stick to you waist" because it makes your shoulders broader (see: one of the Nike ads with a dancer in sports clothes). Thin straps make your shoulders the center of attention too.

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